When Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer first opened its doors in Miami’s Brickell City Centre, it wasn’t just another burger joint—it was a culinary experience designed to impress. Black Tap, originally founded in New York City's SoHo neighborhood, quickly became famous for its unique combination of over-the-top CrazyShakes® and gourmet burgers. So how did this iconic New York concept make its way to the top of Miami’s competitive food scene?
New York Roots and Expansion to Miami
Black Tap began its journey as a small burger joint in SoHo in 2015, founded by restaurateurs Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan. Known for its craft burgers and extravagant milkshakes, Black Tap quickly gained attention in New York and beyond. The Miami expansion, which opened in 2023, marked its first Florida location and its entry into the Brickell neighborhood. The choice to open in Brickell, a bustling area full of business professionals, young residents, and tourists, was strategic. Chris Barish expressed that they had long been eyeing Miami as part of their growth plan, and Brickell City Centre offered the perfect location.
What Makes Black Tap Miami Stand Out?
Black Tap’s success in Miami can be attributed to its ability to offer a familiar yet unique dining experience. At its core, Black Tap Miami delivers what made the original New York location famous—award-winning burgers and viral CrazyShakes®. However, the Miami location introduced special items tailored to the local culture, such as the Frita Cubana, which pays homage to Miami’s Cuban heritage. This burger, made with sofrito butter and shoestring fries, has been a hit with locals, blending flavors that resonate with the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
The Menu: More Than Just Burgers
While burgers like the Tennessee Burger and Wagyu Steakhouse Burger have garnered widespread acclaim, the Black Tap Miami menu is designed to offer more than just burgers. With options like the BT Hot Chicken Sandwich and a selection of shareable items such as Korean BBQ Wings and Ever Haze IPA Shrimp, there’s something for every taste. The menu also features salads that reflect Miami’s vibrant food culture, such as the Black Bean Burger Salad and It’s Not So Jennifer—a playful take on Jennifer Aniston’s viral salad.
One of the major attractions is, of course, the CrazyShakes®. These whimsical, oversized milkshakes have become synonymous with the Black Tap brand and are a big draw for both Miami locals and tourists. The Miami location even partnered with local favorite Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop to create a limited-edition Key Lime Pie CrazyShake, featuring a full slice of pie on top.
Craft Beer and Cocktails
True to its name, Black Tap offers more than just food. The "tap" aspect of the restaurant is brought to life through its extensive selection of craft beers and innovative cocktails. Miami’s craft beer scene has been incorporated into the Black Tap experience, with brews from local breweries like Wynwood Brewing and Tripping Animals featured on tap. Their cocktail menu is also crafted with Miami in mind, offering fun and tropical options such as the Grand Funk Colada and Mango Mule.
Instagram-Worthy Creations
In today’s social media-driven dining culture, being Instagram-worthy is a big deal, and Black Tap excels in this area. From the towering CrazyShakes® adorned with everything from whole cookies to slices of cake, to the visually appealing burgers, Black Tap has created a menu that is as photogenic as it is delicious. This social media appeal has helped catapult the restaurant to the top of Miami’s burger scene, as diners flock to capture their picture-perfect meals.
Local Partnerships and Community Engagement
Another key to Black Tap Miami’s success has been its engagement with the local community. Collaborating with local Miami institutions like Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop not only ties Black Tap to the city’s culinary roots but also demonstrates its commitment to embracing local flavors. These collaborations help Black Tap Miami stand out in a crowded food scene where supporting local businesses is valued highly.
Conclusion: The Rise to the Top
Black Tap Miami’s rise to becoming a top burger joint in the city is no accident. Its formula of combining award-winning burgers, over-the-top CrazyShakes®, and a fun, vibrant atmosphere has proven successful, first in New York and now in Miami. By embracing local culture and delivering a consistent, high-quality experience, Black Tap has quickly become a must-visit spot in Brickell for locals and tourists alike. As it continues to evolve and innovate, there’s no doubt that Black Tap Miami will remain a top player in the city’s dining scene for years to come.
